Files in this item

Abstract:

Eighty-seven 3/8 Simmental x 5/8 Hereford heifers calved at 2 years of age and were
designated as Single-Calf-Heifers (SCH). Twenty-six heifer mates that did not calve were
designated as 2-year-old open heifers (2-OH), and 22, 1 year-old open heifers (1-OH) from the
same source served as controls. All heifer groups were fed a high-grain diet for 112 to 137 days
before slaughter. The SCH were started on feed about 1 month after calving, and their calves
were weaned early about 5 weeks prior to slaughter. Thirty-three of the SCH were implanted
with Synovex-H® after calving. Carcass data were obtained, and rib steaks were collected and
evaluated for palatability.
Our results indicate that it is possible to produce carcasses with desirable weights, USDA
quality and yield grades, and taste panel palatability ratings from heifers that have produced one
calf, and then were fed a high-grain diet and slaughtered by 30 months of age. However, ribeye
steaks of SCH were not as tender as those from 1-OH. Implanting heifers that have calved may
result in more "hard-boned" carcasses, but likely will increase dressing percent. Cattlemen
willing to provide intensive management may find that the SCH system has considerable
potential.